Luis de León warns that high electoral abstention puts Dominican democracy at risk
Political leader and academic, Luis de León, has expressed his deep concern regarding the high rates of abstention recorded in the recent electoral processes in the Dominican Republic. According to De León, this phenomenon represents a direct threat to the country’s stability, institutional legitimacy, and social peace.
The educator pointed out that citizen participation is a fundamental pillar for leaders to have solid support. He cited the figures for voting abroad as an example, where abstention exceeded 87 percent, warning that this trend erodes the national democratic system.
Trust in the party system
Despite the skepticism expressed by some segments of the population toward the political class, De León maintains an optimistic stance on the country’s party structure. The leader asserted that the nation still possesses a vigorous and credible party system, backed by a leadership that retains the trust of various social sectors.
In this sense, the politician warned that one must act with caution regarding narratives that seek to foster widespread disbelief in institutions. He maintained that there are sectors interested in promoting this pessimism to pave the way for particular agendas or external influences that do not favor the collective well-being.
Dominican democracy must be defended through greater citizen participation and the strengthening of the political and historical consciousness of our people.
Luis de León
Reflection on historical memory and peace
Within the framework of commemorations of historical milestones that have shaped global and national developments, De León emphasized the importance of keeping memory alive to prevent democratic backsliding. The professor recalled critical events such as:
- The coup d’état against Salvador Allende in Chile (September 11, 1973).
- The terrorist attacks on the Twin Towers in the United States (September 11, 2001).
- The overthrow of the constitutional government of Professor Juan Bosch in the Dominican Republic (September 25, 1963).
De León emphasized that these events should serve as a constant lesson on the fragility of political stability. Referring to global tragedies, he recalled the maxim of former Mexican President Benito Juárez: “Respect for the rights of others is peace,” urging society to foster unity and civic awareness as tools to protect the country’s democratic future.
